Individual emotional intelligence matters — but teams thrive when EI is built together, not carried by a few well-developed individuals. In this episode, Vanessa Druskat explains why high-performing groups rely on shared norms that create psychological safety, trust, and collaboration. We talk through her research-backed framework for turning work groups into emotionally intelligent teams, how leaders can shape better environments, and why optimism is a surprisingly powerful tool for motivation and change.
Topics
[0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Vanessa Druskat
[7:08] What is Team Emotional Intelligence?
[13:02] Leader Behavior vs Team Norms
[18:24] The Discovery of “the Nine Norms”
[26:34] Engaging Stakeholders Beyond the Team
[33:19] Belonging Needs and Conformity
[42:01] Optimism As a Leadership Tool
[47:21] Coaching for Hope vs Problems
[50:42] Desert Island Music
[54:14] Grooving Session: A+ Teams vs A+ Individuals
©2025 Behavioral Grooves
Links
About Vanessa
The Emotionally Intelligent Team
Join us on Substack!
Join the Behavioral Grooves community
Subscribe to Behavioral Grooves on YouTube
Support Behavioral Grooves
Musical Links
Van Morrison - Days Like This
John Prine - In Spite of Ourselves
